A Vision for What Is Possible 

Imagine a warm July afternoon in La Pine. Children run through cool arcs of water and gather under a fountain, laughing freely as their families picnic in shaded areas with tables, benches, and a nearby grassy knoll. Birthdays are celebrated, and neighbors are connecting. Kids of all ages drift between the splash pad, the adjacent playground, the open field space, and—one day—a future skate park. Music begins to play, and children dance during the summer concert series “Music in the Pines.” In that moment, the splash pad becomes more than a park feature—it becomes a place where lifelong memories are made and the spirit of community is felt in every shared smile. 

The space is safe and thoughtfully designed: gated and fenced for peace of mind, well-lit for evening visibility, and monitored by Wi-Fi–enabled security cameras to ensure a secure and welcoming environment. Fully accessible ADA pathways and ground-level water features allow children, seniors, and individuals of all abilities to participate side by side. Generous seating areas, shaded picnic tables, and open gathering spaces invite families to linger, celebrate, and build relationships. As a free, accessible amenity in the geographic heart of La Pine, the splash pad is more than a recreational feature; it is a shared commons where connection, belonging, and community naturally grow. 

The Problem: Growth Without Infrastructure for Families 

La Pine is growing rapidly. From 2020 to 2023 alone, the region experienced a 24.4% increase in population, and the broader South County area is on track to use up most of the land currently available for new housing by 2027. Families priced out of Bend and Sunriver are choosing La Pine for its relative affordability, natural beauty, and proximity to outdoor recreation. Yet while rooftops are multiplying, the infrastructure that supports everyday family life has not kept pace. 

Within city limits, options for children and families remain limited: two public playgrounds, no maintained trail systems, a handful of sports fields, and one basketball court. At the same time, La Pine faces a 17.5% poverty rate, with more than half of households cost-burdened, higher rates of disability, and limited access to affordable basic needs, including food and rent. For many, recreation feels like a pipe dream.

The Solution: A Community Splash Pad at Heritage Park 

The proposed 2,400-square-foot, splash pad at Heritage Park will transform an already central gathering place into a vibrant, multigenerational hub of activity. Ten interactive water features will invite children of all ages and abilities to explore and play, while expanded seating and shaded picnic areas create space for families to relax and connect. Designed with ADA-accessible pathways, secure fencing, lighting, and Wi-Fi–enabled security cameras, the space will be safe, inclusive, and welcoming. Built with sustainable, water-efficient recirculating systems and requiring no lifeguards, the splash pad offers a low-maintenance, fiscally responsible amenity that reflects La Pine’s rural character while investing confidently in its future. The design will reuse the bricks, tables, and benches that the community previously invested in for the seating area, ensuring our dedication to sustainable growth and our gratitude for past support.

For businesses, this investment strengthens Heritage Park as a vibrant year-round destination, driving foot traffic during concerts and events, enhancing La Pine’s appeal to families and workforce, and demonstrating visible civic leadership. 

For individual donors, it offers a lasting legacy in the heart of the community while leveraging substantial external funding to drive tangible local impact. 

La Pine will continue to grow. The real question is whether that growth will reflect intention, care, and pride. By investing in the Heritage Park Splash Pad, you are not simply funding construction; you are helping shape a hometown where children can play freely, families can gather without barriers, and community spirit is strengthened for generations. Now is the moment to step forward and build the future La Pine deserves. 

Community Partnership Opportunity 

La Pine stands at a pivotal moment. With significant federal and grant funding, the Splash Pad is ready to move from vision to reality, but only if we secure the required $100,000 in local matching funds. This is a 3:1 opportunity: every local dollar invested unlocks three dollars in outside funding. Meeting this match is more than a fundraising milestone; it is a shared decision about the kind of community we are building. Every dollar donated helps bring this project closer to reality. Please click the link or use the QR Code to donate. All donations are tax deductible. We appreciate your commitment to this community.

With funding secured, construction will proceed on a clear, disciplined schedule. The timeline below outlines the phased approach from groundbreaking to grand opening: 

Phase	Timeline	Key Activities
Phase 1: Site & Structural Work	Jan–Mar 2027	Site prep, grading, concrete base, underground utilities, pump house
Phase 2: Installation & Finishing	Apr–Jun 2027	Water features, mechanical systems, lighting, ADA pathways, landscaping, fencing, security
Grand Opening	Week of July 4	Community launch celebration

Corporate Partnership Opportunity 

The following chart shows the recognition provided for your generous contribution:

Level	Investment Range	Recognition Opportunities
Tsunami	$50,000+	Lets talk
Wave	$10,000–$25,000+	Prominent signage and media recognition (10 Years)
Splash	$5,000–$9,999	Recognition plaque (7 Years)
Ripple	$2,500–$4,999	Donor wall (5 Years)

La Pine families often travel 30–45 minutes to Bend or Sunriver for splash pads and similar recreation. The Heritage Park Splash Pad will bring a free, accessible play space to our own community.

Your donation will help fund a 2,400 sq. ft splash pad for the La Pine Community. Your donation is tax deductible.

This Capital Campaign will commence May 1st and end March 31st 2027, with a proposed Grand Opening Date of July 2027.